David McNicholas

David McNicolas joined the Supply Chain & Logistics graduate programme in 2012. He is currently a Project Manager for Tradeteam.

Why did you choose the DHL Graduate Programme?

I had entered the business through the industrial placement scheme. Following this positive experience within the business I decided to apply to re-enter the world of Supply Chain on the graduate programme.

What was your favourite experience / memory during the graduate programme?

My favourite experience comes from the first days in the new roles over the course of the 18 months – this was a time when I was given the opportunity to explore varied operations by meeting the teams I would be working with for the next few months. This has made me more adaptable to new environments and less phased by the wide variety of operations across DSC.

What makes the DHL graduate programme unique?

Variety – the ability to vary roles and subsequently understand the areas of the business that really lend themselves to your skills and interests. Throughout, no area of the business is off limits, really allowing you to explore the world of DSC.

How has being a part of the DHL graduate programme helped you accomplish what you have with your career?

Being part of the graduate scheme has allowed me to obtain a foot hold within the business and gain contacts in various areas of the business. In addition, it has also allowed me to obtain my current role and I can now call upon all my contacts to seek advice on solutions for my customers.

What advice would you give to future graduates in the DHL programme?

The real way of making the graduate scheme work for any future grads would be to jump in, and not shy away from any opportunities that appear. The grad scheme is really about spending your time understanding and exploring the business, as when it finishes, the challenge then becomes finding the time to do just that!